Fircroft Chronicles - Electrics Inspection and Blood Pressure

[Flyfisher]

Speaking of electrical cowboys, here's a mains plug I found when we moved in. It was connected to a 4-way plug block that had obviously been overloaded to the extent that the fuse had blown and had to be 'fixed' by wrapping it in metal foil, resulting in the high current overheating the plug and the 3-way adapter. :shock:
And while you're marvelling at that, take note of the reversed live & neutral wires. :shock: :shock:
Finally, the observant among you will notice the just-visible cut-off earth wire. :shock: :shock: :shock:
Still, at least the cable clamp seems to have been used correctly. :lol:

 

[Zebra]

A rental property (not my own) I looked after was lucky not to be burned down when the tenant left a candle alight on the hearth of the fireplace

Yes, what use was all the RCDs, surge protection, annual inspection reports and certification schemes then? Clearly that particular candle installer was not fully qualified and registered to do so, and the installation had not been signed off by a registered member of a competent person scheme.

Flyfisher, that is a superb example of a multilayered f*ck-up.

 

[Cubist]

Many thanks to all those who posted a reply. The helpful were helpful and the horror stories were terrifying.

Fircroft is an oak timber frame cottage with reed thatch roof first built around 1550 and ground-up restored around 30 years ago. Insurers have demanded a EICR since we took possession and, considering the horrific Re-Build costs, and the get out of jail free cards insurers deal themselves, we have always tried to comply.

All the corrective work now done and I learned a little along the way. Not least that a plastic CU can spontaneously combust. Metal ones can do the same it just take a little longer, but not much, before the house catches fire. Oh, and Separation between circuits means that you don't lose all the services if one circuit pops.

To those that were not specifically asked when taking out the policy or decided not to bother with a EICR... please, please, check the fine print; you may find that your cover is void if you cannot produce one as 'proof that the house has been 'effectively maintained'.

I would like to say that my blood pressure is back to normal but...I'm still arguing with my insurer about the meaning of the term 'Satisfactory'.